Related • Being Prepared for a Disaster

The world can be a cold, mean, and dangerous place at times.  But I believe in the power of good people to chase away some of the darkness.  Here are ten ways to make the world a little bit better on your daily walks.

1.  Prevent punctures:  Whenever I find glass, nails, bolts, or other objects that could puncture a tire or cut a walker, I get them out of the street or off of the sidewalk so they don't ruin anybody's day.

2.  Smile and wave to the neighbors, walkers, and runners:  Connect with the people along your walking route in even these simple ways and you help build a community.  In return, they will begin to look for you and look out for you.

3.  Thank the drivers:  Pedestrians often feel at odds with drivers, so lessen the tension by giving them the old smile and wave also at intersections, especially when they let you cross.  This connection will make them more aware of other walkers and runners and cyclists in the future, and lessen their road rage.

4.  Lend a hand:  Having made a connection in your walking with the waving and smiling, now you can offer assistance when you see somebody struggling with carrying packages, or even the proverbial little old lady who needs help crossing the street.  Never mind that YOU may also be a little old lady - your walking has made you nimble and you can help out the less mobile.

5.  Recycle as you walk:  Once in awhile, take along a trash bag and pick up recyclable cans and bottles.  Be sure to wear gloves and be careful not to get punctured.

6.  Help the lost:  Yes, mom told me not to talk to strangers - and I keep an open getaway route in mind, but I am often stopped by people looking for directions.  They assume that you must know where you are if you are on foot.  I usually do - or I have a map of the walk I am doing in a city far from home.

7.  Report problems:  On foot, you are likely to notice things in need of repair, unlawful trash dumps, or even crimes taking place.  Keep the local numbers handy to report these problems.  Take responsibility to become the squeaky wheel that makes sure improvements are made to your walking route.

8.  Be a witness:  I've seen more than my share, perhaps, of traffic accidents happen right in front of me as I walk.  When I have seen the accident clearly, I stop, offer my cell phone to get help, and give the parties my number as a witness.  Being aware of other things going on around me can also help if evidence is needed in other sorts of cases.  Be the eyes and ears of your community to help make it safer.

9.  Return lost articles:  I've found wallets and other important articles while out walking.  Depending on the circumstances, I have returned them to the mall office, to the bank listed on the checks, or mailed them back to the owners.  It certainly has brightened a few days to get back their ID, cash, and credit cards.

10.  Smell the roses and plant your own:  Enjoy the gardens, flowers, and window boxes along your route, and compliment anybody out working in their yard.  In return, make sure there is some happy bit of flowers or foliage at your house or apartment for those passing by to enjoy.

Related:  Positive Steps to Prepare for and React to a Disaster